Paris

Accommodations in Paris run the gamut from opulent suites to cramped garrets. (Not that we'll be recommending any of the latter!) Keep in mind that guestrooms here tend to be smaller than many North American travelers are used to, and that air-conditioning is by no means standard -- so if you're traveling during the potentially sticky summer months, call ahead to check. Hotels on the Right Bank tend to be a bit more chic and luxurious than those on the Left Bank, where you'll find more budget options as well as mid-priced hotels with historic charm. Apartment rentals can be a delightful alternative to standard hotels, offering visitors the chance to settle into a residential neighborhood and live like a Parisian for a few days or weeks.